Chicago Bears fans have waited patiently for defensive end Montez Sweat to break out and be the dominant force on defense they have needed. It appears they are finally getting it in a big way.
It was a slow start to the 2025 season, with just one sack in the first five games. Since then? How about 6.5 sacks in six games?
Unbelieveable!
Sweat had a monster day for the Bears in their Week 12 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He finished the game with three tackles, three tackles for loss, two sacks, and two quarterback hits.
That $98 million is finally being well spent for the Bears
This season, Sweat has dominated on the defensive line and has made life miserable for quarterbacks. He has racked up 7.5 sacks and 12 quarterback hits on the season.
There was a lot of concern with Sweat after only having 5.5 sacks all of last season, after racking up 12.5 in 2023 with the Bears and Commanders. Many thought, after the new contract with Chicago, that Sweat had lost a step and that it was a mistake to pay him that kind of money.
Things have changed this season despite the slow start. Without the other starter off the edge, Dayo Odeyingbo, on the field with an injury, Sweat has had a lot more pressure to step up and play well. He has certainly answered the call in a big way.
Sweat's improved play has helped the Bears win eight of their last nine games and move on step closer to the making the postseason. When the pass rush has been inconsistent, it has been Sweat that has sparked the run off the edge and gotten to the quarterback.
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It has been a stellar season for Sweat, and he still has six more games to add to his numbers and make his way to the Pro Bowl.